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2005 12 12

Sprawl and the OMB

This morning the Ontario government announces its long anticipated changes to the Ontario Municipal Board. Called by some the "enemy of the environment," the OMB has long been known to overturn municipal planning decisions in favour of developer driven plans.

The Oak Ridges Moraine, a unique geological formation north of Toronto, plays a critical role in the ecology of Southern Ontario. Its porous layers contain extensive fresh water aquifers that are the headwaters of about thirty rivers and streams that flow into Lake Ontario. Decisions made by the Board have allowed development on the moraine to the point that the Ontario government had to override some of its decisions and declare a moratorium on development.

Sprawl is the moraine's enemy. The city's bloated consumption of farm land is set to destroy forever this provincial treasure. Will the government's decision today offer a solution?